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Don MacArthur

Don MacArthur, The Practical Engineer, is a Guest Contributor to In Compliance Magazine with over 30 years of hands-on experience in product development and global compliance. He has led engineering teams and certification efforts across defense systems, critical infrastructure, and industrial technologies. Don is known for making complex compliance challenges accessible, practical, and solutions-driven.

From This Author

Design and Operation of Antennas

Looking beyond the equipment, EMC compliance hinges on precise antenna performance. This blog examines how construction materials, proper setup techniques, and regular maintenance affect measurement accuracy. Learn why high-conductivity metals, careful calibration, and consistent care are essential for reliable testing that ensures your products meet regulatory standards.

Designing for EMC Compliance in Consumer Electronics

This practical guide explores the critical challenges of electromagnetic compatibility in modern consumer electronics, from smartphones to wearables. Learn key design strategies for managing interference in increasingly compact devices with real-world examples. 

Applications of ESD Simulators

Electrostatic discharge (ESD) simulators are crucial tools in the field of electronics testing. They are designed to replicate the electrostatic discharge events that electronic devices might encounter during their lifecycle. These simulators ensure that devices can withstand ESD events without malfunctioning, which is vital for maintaining their performance and safety. Let’s explore how ESD simulators are applied across different industries.

Noise Suppression Techniques Using Capacitors

Explore the essential role of capacitors in electromagnetic interference (EMI) suppression. From ceramic to electrolytic options, discover how proper selection and placement of these components can significantly improve circuit performance and reliability in electronic design.

Understanding RF Amplifiers: A Dive into Key Parameters and Specifications

This comprehensive guide explores four critical parameters of RF amplifiers - gain, noise figure, linearity, and efficiency. Understanding these specifications is crucial for engineers designing high-performance amplifiers that deliver clear signal transmission while balancing power consumption and signal integrity in modern communication systems.
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How to Become A Great Compliance Engineering Professional

The journey to becoming an excellent compliance engineering professional is an ongoing process of continuous learning, practical skill development, and unwavering commitment to ensuring product safety, regulatory compliance, and maintaining the highest standards of professional integrity.

Introduction to Measurement Uncertainty in EMC Testing

Explore the hidden complexities of measurement uncertainty in EMC testing, where precision meets practicality. Learn how subtle variations in measurements can impact product compliance, engineering decisions, and ultimately, market success.

Product Insights: The Sources of Uncertainty in Radiated Emissions Tests

Discover the key sources of uncertainty in radiated emissions testing and learn how to calculate measurement uncertainty budgets. Essential insights for EMC professionals seeking more accurate and reliable test results.

Practical Engineering: Odds and Ends – Navigating the Nuances of Compliance Engineering

Discover essential but often overlooked aspects of compliance engineering, from material selection to ethical conduct. Learn practical insights for navigating regulatory landscapes while maintaining product safety and integrity.

Practical Engineering: Using Welch-Satterthwaite Formula in Uncertainty Analysis

This month's Practical Engineering explains how to use the Welch-Satterthwaite formula to calculate the effective degrees of freedom and expanded uncertainty in a measurement uncertainty analysis. It provides a practical example to demonstrate the application of this formula.
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